Tablo's New Book

"I always make sure there's an opening in the room--an inch at the door, or maybe even at the window My grandmother taught me that if one dies during sleep, the soul needs an exit, or it will be forever trapped in the room." -- From Tablo/Daniel Armand Lee's Andante.

Just a little over a week ago, a collection of short stories written by Korean hip hop artist Tablo, titled Pieces of You (당신의 조각들 / dang-shin-e jo-gak-deul), was published in the US. In his book, Tablo shares ten short stories that were written by him from 1998 - 2001, while he was attending Stanford University in the United States. Prior to its US release, Pieces of You was published in Korea in November 2008. The book was originally written in English, however; so thankfully, they published it in English as well. The above quote is from Tablo's essay Andante (which is included in his book). According to some of Tablo's friends, Professor Tobias Wolff of Stanford University had great praise for Andante.

I have to agree with Professor Wolff--Tablo's book is amazing! (Albeit, I have yet to finish it.) Of course, it's undeniable that Tablo's books is not, in part, selling due to his status as a celebrity (Tablo himself has said so); however, his book is thought provoking and deep. On the back of the US version are quotes (translated into English) from singer Lee Juck (이적) and poet Lee Byung-ryul (이병률), who both applaud Tablo's work.

Hopefully you can snag a copy for yourself. I do warn you, however, that there is a bit of coarse language throughout (e.g.: f--k, b---h, etc.). It's still worth buying, though. As of now, you can only order it online (I doubt any stores will have it on their shelves ever). But you can get it for about $16 if you order it from HanBooks. The shipping rates vary, but I think it's the best deal currently. Do NOT buy Pieces of You from YesAsia, who is charging $24.99 for it! Although I really like their site, that is quite overpriced! (On the back of the book it says 10,000원 actually, which is less than $10 USD, haha. Oh well.)

Tablo's Pieces of You (English Version) comes in hardcover only. It has a nice black cover and on the front inside flap a short bio on Tablo. There's also a built-in bookmark. On the very first page there is a message from Tablo and his "signature". Not quite the same as getting it signed by him in person, but nice nonetheless.